The yellow-throated sandgrouse is a species of bird belonging to the family Pteroclidae.
Region
East Africa
Typical Environment
Occupies arid and semi-arid savannas, thornbush, and open scrub with patches of bare or stony ground. Frequently uses sparsely vegetated plains, recently burned grassland, and lightly grazed areas where seeds are accessible. Typically keeps within commuting distance of reliable water, to which flocks fly at first and last light. Avoids dense woodland and tall, rank grass.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Males soak specialized belly feathers to carry water to chicks at the nest, a hallmark behavior of sandgrouse. Flocks make regular dawn and dusk flights to waterholes, often calling loudly in swift, direct flight. Their intricately patterned plumage provides excellent camouflage against sandy and stony ground.
Temperament
wary and gregarious
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with rapid, stiff wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small to medium flocks, especially when commuting to water. Ground-nesting in a shallow scrape, typically with 2–3 eggs; both parents attend, with the male carrying water to chicks. Generally monogamous and strongly site-faithful to drinking spots.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are far-carrying, resonant, and somewhat guttural, often given in flight en route to water. Calls include repetitive, ringing notes and chattering sequences that help maintain flock cohesion.
Plumage
Fine mottled and barred sandy-brown upperparts with smooth, compact contour feathers; underparts cleaner with contrasting throat area.
Diet
Primarily granivorous, taking seeds of grasses and forbs, including acacias and other legumes. Will also nip tender shoots and occasionally ingest small grit to aid digestion. Rarely takes small invertebrates opportunistically. Feeds by walking and pecking methodically on open ground.
Preferred Environment
Forages in open, dry habitats with short vegetation, bare soil patches, and along tracks or grazed areas where seeds are exposed. Often feeds near traditional drinking sites and recently burned or disturbed ground.
